Pete Coppola

School: Pontifical North American College00120 Vatican City StateEurope

Background

I was born in the early nineties, and grew up in north Georgia. My family was Catholic, and I was raised accordingly. I consider myself fortunate to have been blessed with the presence of good, holy people while growing up, and I credit both my family and the pastor of my home parish for me being the person I am today.

What are your hobbies and interests?

I enjoy reading and writing in my free time.

What is one of your favorite scriptures?

Ecclesiastes 7:10.

Who is your favorite saint and why?

I appreciate the examples set by the lives of many holy people. As of the present moment, I am particularly inspired by the life of St. Francis, and the example he has set in living a life of service and simplicity.

In a nutshell, what is your vocation story? How did you feel called to the priesthood?

It is my belief that God gave me the desire to be a priest, but left to me the choice to pursue this calling. I chose to do so both with prayer and by contacting my vocation director. The process of discernment for the priesthood is not done in a vacuum – it requires both cooperation with God and with the Church Christ founded on Earth.

What is seminary life like for you?

Seminary life consists of multiple facets, which correspond with the Four Pillars of Formation as detailed in the Program for Priestly Formation: the human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral. If I had to sum up the seminary life in one word it would be “busy.” Life at the seminary incorporates formation in all of these areas into the daily routine. Although difficult at times, it is also immensely satisfying.

What do you look forward to about being a priest?

To me, the most beautiful aspect of the priesthood is its direct succession from Jesus Christ. While it is intimidating to realize the gravity of the responsibility inherent in the priesthood, this responsibility is manifested in the celebration of the Sacraments. This is one of the things I look forward to about being a priest the most.

What advice do you have for other guys thinking about the priesthood?

If you think you might have vocation to the priesthood, then don’t hesitate to call your vocation director! Doing so is not making a commitment, but rather taking the initiative to learn what God’s will for your life may be.